The Pennsylvania Game Commission Board of Commissioners took a step on Tuesday to making it pretty expensive for anyone caught poaching wildlife in the state.

By a 7-0 vote, the board passed a motion to establish replacement costs for wildlife taken unlawfully. Under the proposal, a judge would be able to assess anyone convicted of illegally killing the following species a replacement cost of: $5,000 for any endangered or threatened species; $1,500 for an elk or bear; $800 for a deer; $500 for a bobcat or river otter; $300 for a wild turkey or beaver; and $200 for any other wildlife.

It's a step in the right direction, but sometimes fines only aren't enough of a deterent.

True enough, but that's true of every crime. You could also say that jail time is a step in the right direction, but sometimes not enough of a deterrent. At least, heavy fines recognize the seriousness of the crime, and when these begin getting publicized it will have an effect. IMHO, jail time wouldn't be too much for repeat offenders.

Limit me to 2 or 3 doe tags even though im willing to spend my hard earned $ and pay for the extras that are left over after all the rounds are thru.... Come find me and the food for my family! If someone wants them, they should be able to puchase them.

"Go afield with a good attitude, with respect for the wildlife you hunt and for the forest and fields in which you walk. Immerse yourself in the outdoor experience. It will cleanse your soul and make you a better person." - Fred Bear